Health Library

Anal Sphincterotomy

Definition

This is a procedure to treat chronic anal fissures. An anal fissure is a painful tear in the lining of the anus. The anus is the opening through which stool passes from the body. Tears generally occur just inside the opening.

Anesthesia

Description of Procedure

If there are any skin tags near the fissure, they will be removed. Next, the doctor will carefully make a cut on the anal sphincter muscle. This will relax the sphincter and allow it to stretch, taking pressure off the fissure. The doctor will put a dressing into your anus to stop the bleeding.

How Long Will It Take?

Less than one hour

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesetics will prevent pain during the procedure. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Post-procedure Care

At the Care Center

You may be given pain medications and instructions for how to care for your rectal area. A nurse may change your dressing or instruct you on how to change it.

Preventing Infection

During your stay, the care center staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding your healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incision

At Home

When you return home, you will need to take steps to promote healing and prevent infection. These will include:

Keeping the rectal area clean

Using a sitz bath to ease discomfort and cleaning

Avoiding sexual activity and heavy lifting until your doctor says it is okay

Anal fissure treatments. University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, UW Health website. Available at:
http://www.uwhealth.org/healthfacts/surgery/5467.html. Updated April 24, 2013. Accessed May 28, 2013.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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